I bought the Specialized MTB clipless recently - I have high arches also - as in Hang 10 feet!...I find them very comfortable for both riding and the occassions when I have to walk in them - as in walking the bike to her home or her parking spot @ work. They have the Velcro fasteners which makes it very easy on my arches as I can fasten the shoe to fit the arch. They are clipless tho and I know you said you weren't going clipless yet to which I say - why wait? I waited 6 wks and that was just 6 wks too long! I LOVE THEM!! No matter what tho - everyone is right...they have to be comfortable and fit you well!...Good Luck